Head protection protects workers against impacts and bumps in the workplace. It is a critical piece of personal protective equipment (PPE) and can reduce the risk of serious injury and death.
There are many different types and classes of industrial head protection available on the market, ranging from safety helmets to bump caps. These PPE pieces protect against falling objects, bumps and electrical hazards. Some also protect against radiant heat. The type of head protection required for a particular work environment will be determined by the hazard assessment of the work environment and will vary from one work area to another.
For example, workers working below other workers who may be using tools or materials that could fall can benefit from the use of a hard hat to protect against potential head trauma. Accidental contact with low overhead electrical hazards can also be prevented by the use of a hard hat.
Inspecting Shell and Suspension
Before each use, it is important to inspect the head protection for cracks, dents or other signs of wear and tear. The suspension system must be free of any snags, cuts or other damage. A damaged suspension, for example, can cause the hat to snap in half or crush the head. It is also important to inspect labels and certification marks inside the shell of the hat, to ensure they are legible and have not been tampered with. In addition, after each use, it is important to clean the head protection with soap and water, making sure there are no dirt or chemicals on or in the hat that can compromise its ability to protect.